Soft tissue radionecrosis

*Radionecrosis is a complication of cancer radiation therapy, especially external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). Necrosis means the death of cells in bones, organs, and soft tissues. Side effects of radiation therapy may not present a health problem for months or even years after treatment.

To irradiate a cancer tumor physicians and technicians always risk damaging nearby soft tissue and bone. Delayed radiation injuries most often stem from scarring and restricted blood flow near the tumor treatment site. The linings of blood vessels and the gastrointestinal tract are especially vulnerable to radiation damage. Radionecrosis may also be caused by radiation overdose or by misdirected beams of radiation, whether resulting from human error or from device malfunction.  

Hyperbaric oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is widely accepted as an effective treatment for delayed radiation injuries.  HBOT works by improving blood circulation, supplying more oxygen to damaged tissue, reducing scarring, and increasing stem cell activity. Common treatment sites include the jaw, neck, and pelvis.

Important: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is used to treat delayed radiation injuries, not for acute radiation injuries, acute radiation syndrome (ARS), or radiation poisoning.